During the tours, the public will be able to see first-hand how the local heritage comes to life on the streets and in the buildings.

Maurice and Jane tell the story of the Ulster Linen Industry through the folk-songs of its workers, drawn from Maurice’s collection of traditional linen songs.

It will be eye-catching and unexpected, creating an enjoyable tour. Tickets for this event are free but booking is required.

These tours are led by renowned musical husband and wife team, Maurice Leyden and Jane Cassidy.

Jane is a singer, broadcaster, writer and producer who has toured extensively in Europe bringing her own blend of traditional Ulster music and self-penned songs to folk audiences. As well as countless television appearances, Jane has released 3 albums, 2 on the Claddagh Record label, ‘Waves of Time’ and ‘The Empty Road’ as well as ‘Silverbridge‘ and 3 collections of children’s songs, 2 of which feature songs composed by Jane for the UTV series ‘Swings & Roundabouts’. Together with husband Maurice Leyden, Jane released a CD of songs and readings from their show ‘Mary Ann McCracken’.

Maurice is a folk-song collector, singer, broadcaster and writer with a passion for Ulster folk-song. Originally from Cookstown, Co. Tyrone, his first book Belfast, City of Song (Brandon) explores the traditional songs of the city which has been his home for many years. His research for the Belfast book revealed a wealth of children’s songs and street lore and Maurice’s second book ‘Boys and Girls Come out to Play’ (Appletree) presents a rich collection of children’s singing games, which form the basis of the couple’s musical workshops in schools – also taking place as part of the Linen Biennale.
Maurice has completed a third book on the folk-songs associated with the Ulster linen industry which is being prepared for publication